The event was originally designed to select ten performers, but due to the talented crop of singers, the Somerset Patriots selected 14 finalists this year.

Just under 100 singers auditioned with a minute-and-a-half of the song of their choice before the judges and mall crowd. Singers were judged on vocal talent, stage presence, and their ability to perform before a large crowd.

For the sixth year in a row, the event was a fundraiser and each contestant donated a minimum of $10 to Operation Shoebox New Jersey, an all-volunteer organization dedicated to collecting donated supplies to ship care packages to U.S. troops based overseas.

WCTC 1450 AM’s Hall of Fame broadcaster Bert Baron served as the emcee of the event. The judges were Cindy Vero of Magic 98.3 FM, Somerset Patriots Vice President of Public Relations Marc Russinoff, and the Executive Director of Operation Shoebox New Jersey Rod Hirsch.

The National Anthem Auditions took place at Center Court on the lower level of the mall. This was the 15th year the Patriots hosted National Anthem auditions.

“We want to thank all of our participants that tried out this year. We once again had some very talented singers that made the decision very difficult,” said Russinoff. “The 14 finalists were the most we have ever selected from the event. We found some very strong talent from the New Jersey market. We can’t wait to give these great performers a chance to perform at the ballpark.”

The Somerset Patriots led the Atlantic League in attendance and made their 14th appearance in the playoffs last season. The Somerset Patriots will welcome their 7,000,000th fan in their 20th season at TD Bank Ballpark in 2018. Tickets are now on sale for the 2018 Season presented by Ford beginning at home on Friday, April 27th. For more information, please visit www.somersetpatriots.com.

About The Atlantic League of Professional Baseball (ALPB)

The Atlantic League has been a leader in professional baseball and a gateway to Major League Baseball since 1998. Over 38 million fans have attended Atlantic League games and more than 900 players and 50 managers and coaches have joined MLB organizations directly from the ALPB. The Atlantic League emphasizes winning baseball games, showcasing the talent of top-caliber players and offering affordable family entertainment.